March 2001
ANOTHER MILESTONE
With this issue we reach another milestone, issue 150 of Model Auto Review. Everybody knows by now that this is actually the 151st MAR, due to the un-numbered Colour Extra in 1983, but never mind. When we started in 1982 MAR was quarterly (four per year), so it would have taken 37.5 years to reach issue 150 if we had kept to that publishing interval, instead of 19 years. MAR 150 would have been published in 2019, so we've saved you a bit of a wait. On the other hand, if we had set off in 1982 publish-ing ten issues per year as we do now, issue 150 would have been reached after only 15 years, in 1997. In fact there wasn't enough material to fill ten isues per year in 1982, which defeated some attempts to produce monthly model car magazines at the time.
KEEPING THE RECORD
Among my somewhat pretentious aims for MAR when it was launched was that it should be a 'journal of record', listing every new model issued, so that it could be used for reference in subsequent years. This has largely been achieved, thanks to the efforts of our many contributors, but it is interesting to note that I managed it with four 32 page issues per year at that time (128 pages), and it now takes ten 48 page magazines (480 pages), four times the space. It is surprisingly difficult to get information on some ranges, particularly if a maker regards his products as 'toys', and not of interest to collectors. Some firms postively avoid collectors, who they regard as time-wasters asking irrelevant questions about scale, exact prototype modelled etc, so they discourage publicity in magazines like MAR, but we try to include them anyway, if we can get the inform-ation somewhere. We also have problems listing ranges produced for limited geographical markets, which makers don't want to receive world-wide publicity (time-wasting phone calls from collectors in other countries etc). On the other hand, other firms think that because MAR is published in Britain we don't want news which only affects other markets! We can't win, but sometimes manage to get a replay.
THE GREAT DIVIDE
I won't go back over what has happened since we began to publish MAR; you can check that out in the Ten Years of MAR coverage in our 1992-93 issues. I will, however, comment on an aspect of MAR which has been there from the start, but which is not always well understood. When we began publication, there were two main types of reader, the toy collector and the vehicle enthusiast. There are now many more sub-groups, but the 'great divide' still exists between these two main types. The toy collector at that time usually followed one maker (Dinky, Spot-On, Matchbox) slavishly, regardless of the quality or accuracy of a particular item, on what was known at the time as a 'tick hunt' to fill gaps in the sequence. Often, these collectors had no idea what prototype vehicle was being modelled, or even if one existed at all, and often cared less. This meant that they rarely wanted to know about anything outside their own field, and even resented coverage of other topics. This made them hard to please, as it was impossible to give their topic exclusive coverage, and they often had clubs or magazines on their subject anyway, going into minute detail about production faults and casting variations. On the other hand, the vehicle enthusiast often had his own agenda, trying to build a thematic collection, based on deep knowledge of the subject (taxis, Jaguars, Le Mans), and also had wide-ranging interests, which meant he would find articles on other themes interesting to read.
TO INFORM AND ENTERTAIN
I know that most MAR readers have collections of books, sales brochures, magazines, etc relating to their interests, and many also own full-size classic vehicles. So most of our coverage is directed at those vehicle enthusiasts who also collect models. Feature articles mostly, therefore, relate to vehicle history (Ferrari, Cortina, Paris buses, caravans), illustrated by models and toys. We also include the histories of toy and model companies from time to time, but not just the same firms over and over again. It is some-times difficult to fillet a story down to its bare essentials, so that a committed enthusiast finds it accurate and relevant, whilst general readers still find it concise, interesting and informative, but that is the aim. We try to inform and entertain you about less-familiar aspects of automotive history at the same time as keeping you up to date on your own main interest field. So if you thought you had noticed a common purpose to much of MAR, but you could not quite put your finger on it, now you know.
St PETERSBURG NEWS
By Leonid KhoykhinHere is the latest news from the St Petersburg Tram Col1ection. All of our new models are trams, mostly US, but one from Australia.
153, the Sydney R-class is ready now, in 1:43 scale. The R-class was built for Sydney tramway system between 1933 and 1935 by Clyde Engineering Co. There were 195 cars in this series, numbered
1738-1932. The new green and cream paint scheme was first introduced with this class. These 'corridor cars' were in some ways never fully accepted into the system, because the crews and the travelling public had for many years been used to the older cross-bench cars, but the R-class was very successful in operation and remained in service until July 1960. These new US trams have also been released:
151a 1946 Shaker Heights Rapid Transit St Louis Car Co PCC (40-49 series), ex-St Louis, acquired in 1959.
171 1951 MTA Boston Pullman-Standard 'Picture Window' PCC (3272-3321 series). In 1949 Transit Research Corp developed a new PCC styling with double-width side windows and in June 1950 Boston Metropolitan Transit Authority ordered 50 new PCC cars of the improved design with large 'picture windows' from Pullman-Standard (order W6892). The 50 cars, 3272 to 3321, were delivered in 1951 and assigned to the busy Beacon Street line between Cleveland Circle and Lechmere. Because they were four inches wider than other Boston PCCs and had the unique third generation General Electric control system, they were in maximum three car units. In 1959 they were refurbished for service on the new Highland Branch to Riverside.
417 1927 Chicago, Aurora & Elgin Railroad Cincinnati Car Co 420-434 series Interurban Car. The new management of the Chicago, Aurora and Elgin Railroad, a famous Chicago inter-urban connecting Chicago with the Fox River Valley via Wheaton, decided to modernise its fleet in 1922 and the first order went to Pullman-Standard for 20 heavy steel interurbans. For the second group of steel cars, CA&E went to the Cincinnati Car Co and in 1927 15 cars, 420 to 434, entered service. These cars had four GE254 motors, of 140 hp each. This batch was rebuilt in the late 1940s and remained in service until the end of passenger operation in July 1957. The freight service finally ended in July 1959.
418 1924 Pacific Electric Standard Steel 1100 series Interurban Car, as refurbished in 1942. The last inter-urban cars built for Pacific Electric were the 1100s built by the Standard Steel Car Co of Hammond, Indiana in 1924. These 50 cars (1100-1149) had unusual double-width vestibules and heavy high-floor bodies. They were designed to be used on the 600 volt lines in the Northern District and this class entered service in August 1924 on the Pasadena lines. All 50 cars were rehabilitated in 1942-43. All received a mechanical overhaul and painting, many gained better divided seats, removed from scrapped 950 and 750 cars. Some cars were given bullseye lighting and many (but not all) the colourful 'Butterfly' paint scheme. The 1100s were identified almost entirely with the Northern District lines, their last day of regular service there being March 26, 1951. Some cars returned to service briefly to run as Santa Anita Racetrack extras. After several years in storage, the 1100s were sold to the General Urquiza Railway of Buenos Aires, Argentina. For more information, contact St Petersburg Tram Collection, PO Box No 16, 196158 St Petersburg, Russia. Fax: +7 (812)164 5254 Internet: www.sptc.spb.ru E-Mail: sptc@sp.ruOOC FOR MAY TO AUGUST
The second tranche of new releases in Corgi's Original Omnibus Co 1:76 diecast bus range is listed here, for release May to August 2001, the most noteworthy being a new BMMO D9 double decker. BMMO (Midland Red) designed and built its own buses from 1923 to 1970, and the front engined D9 double decker was unveiled in 1958. The full list is: BMMO D9 Closed Top Midland Red
BMMO D9 Open Top London Transport
BMMO D9 Closed Top West Midlands PTE
BMMO C5A Bus Midland Red
AEC Reliance-Panorama I Sheffield United Tours
Leyland Leopard-Marshall Midland RedGuy Arab Utility Bus Bradford (Wartime khaki)
Leyland PD3-Queen Mary London Pride
AEC Regent-Weymann South Wales Transport
Daimler CW Utility Bus London Transport
Burlingham Seagull Coach Stratford Blue
BMMO CM5T Midland Red bus (not coach)
Bedford VAL-Panorama I King Alfred Motor Serv.
MCW Metrobus Mk 1 (SD) - Stevenson's Bus Serv.
Van Hool Alizee Whippet Coaches
Plaxton Excalibur Harry Shaw Travel
Bova Futura Anderson Travel Ltd
MCW Metrobus Mkll (SD) Strathclyde Buses Ltd
Plaxton Palatine II Harris Bus Co Ltd
Blackpool Balloon Tram Car 710 Odeon Cinema
Optare Solo Blackpool Transport (Handybus)
Blackpool Brush Railcoach The Royal British Legion 30th Anniversary
Blackpool Brush Railcoach Sandcastle Centre
Blackpool Brush Railcoach-Terror Train
Blackpool Brush Railcoach Current Livery
Blackpool Balloon Tram Thwaites Brewery
Blackpool Balloon Tram Valhalla
Duple Metsec Trident Citybus HK (Greener Bus)
Ocean Park Gift Set HK (Victory + Olympian)
MAN three axle Bus Citybus Hong KongEXCLUSIVE FIRST EDITIONS
New 1:76 diecast buses from EFE for March:
27303 Leyland TD1 Yorkshire Traction
20426 Bristol VR LT Eastern National
27601 Wrights Volvo Renown Bus Eireann
15910 Leyland PD1 Southdown
25510 Routemaster RML London United
25805 Daimler DMS Hampshire Bus
27304 Leyland TD1 Jersey Motor Transport
25402 Fleetline (Manchester) National Welsh
27801 AEC STL class London Transport
27802 AEC STL class Greenline
22712 Alexander Y type Clydeside
We hear that EFE has been put up for sale by its owners. When we have news of a successful purchaser we will publish it in MAR.FIRETECH FROM FRANCE
Here are the planned releases from Firetech of France for the first quarter of 2001:
32 RENAULT AHN fire RNUR Billancourt 1945
34 PANHARD FPT 1950 (March)
35 SIMCA Ariane AC fire Rieguesheim (May)
MODELS ON PARADE
Here are models planned by Parade of France for the first half of 2001:
1:43 models:
4339 OPEL BLITZ fire
4346 CITROEN H Tub fire VSAB
4346 PEUGEOT 402 fire van
4345 CITROEN H Tub Red Cross
4347 BERLIET GLR 160 CCI Camiva fire
4351 UNIC P8R 4 x 4 VMA Sides fire (April)
4352 LAND-ROVER VPI Sides fire (May)
4354 CITROEN U23 4 x 4 fire Oyonnax (June)
4349 OPEL BLITZ 1960 van (June)
4350 OPEL BLITZ 1960 tanker (June)
Now the Parade 1:50 scale proposals:
45 RENAULT B1 Bis battle tank
48 SDKFZ 234/3 Obusier 75mm Base Puma (Mar)GO FORWARD WITH FAHR
By Hans-Georg SchmittMaschinenfabrik Fahr AG used the above slogan to promote tractors and agricultural machinery in the 1950s. The sales team found models to be useful for promotion. Fahr there-fore invited quotes for a promo model of their D180H diesel tractor from the few companies which existed at the time. The legendary Mr Peltzer, owner of Wiking Modellbaumanaged to land the order for his company. The Diesel- schlepper D180H was made with remarkable precision in the impressive scale of 1:30, a testimony to the skill of the tool makers Wiking had at the time. 45 years later the moulds still look good, with an excellent shape and movable front axle. The driver's seat, steering wheel, column, headlights and exhaust are separate parts. The 1:30 Fahr Schlepper is available as 8773935 turquoise green or 8774035 in municipal orange.
CONRAD FIRST QUARTER
Here are the planned releases from Conrad of Germany for the first quarter of 2001, all 1:50 scale unless noted:
36112 MACK-PUTZMEISTER concrete pumper
60002/01 MAN race truck Hasseroder
60002/02 MAN race truck Motorex
60002103 MAN race truck Cepsa
60002/04 MAN race truck Grammer
2096 FAUN ATF1 0015 5 axle telescopic crane
2782 JUNGHEINRICH ETVC 16 (1:25 scale)
2846 CASE 1488 backhoe
2847 CASE 1488 demolition crane
2907 LIEBHERR 954BV demolition backhoe
2095 DEMAG AC500-1 8 axle telescopic crane
2845 SENNEBOGEN M835 Excavator (April)NEW TRANSPUB LIVERIES
Transpub make promo liveries in France. Here are their planned releases for the early 2001:
06 PEUGEOT Boxer TDF Michelin 1996
07 RENAULT Celtaquatre 1937 Primagaz
08 MERCEDES LP1114 Boules Obut (April)
09 PEUGEOT 201 van Michelin 1936 (May)CURSOR 2001 PLANS
The plans of Cursor of Germany for 2001:
7001 IVECO MAGIRUS LF 16/12 fire double cab Apr
7004 IVECO MAGIRUS GKW THW double cab
7005 IVECO MAGIRUS TLF16/25 fire tank April
0600 ROSENBAUER 6 x 6 Panther FL 0600 Peking-Sandelfjord-Freightliner JuneNZG 1:50 MENCK M251 DRAGLINE
By Tony SteenmeyerAfter a rather long wait, NZG has at last released its Menck M251 dragline. These huge machines weighed in at about 77 tons and were mostly used at big construction sites or sand and gravel pits. The model is absolutely perfect in every detail. All the sliding doors open, to reveal the engine and all the drums and transmission parts. All the big gear-wheels are in the right positions. There are even some details inside the upper works, only visible with a small dentist's mirror, like the big silencers under the roof. The Menck has operating trackbelts and a perfect finish. It is rather expensive, but when you see this kind of model, you must buy it. The chances are that it will not be re-issued in the near future, if ever. A model like this must surely be assembled by hand.
Construction Book Reviews
By Hans-Georg SchmittBaufahrzeuge (Construction Vehicles) By Lothar Husemann, German text. 208 pages, 215 colour and 10 b+w photos, 60 drawings. Hardbound, 220 x 250mm. ISBN 3 613 02057-2 Motorbuch Verlag GmbH & Co, Olgastrasse 86; D-70180 Stuttgart, Germany. Tel: 0711 21080-0; Fax: 0711 2360415 The author describes construction vehicles, their history and the vehicle types: Tippers with three or four axles, artic tippers, ready mixed concrete trucks, concrete distributors, transporters for prefabricated elements and prefab house transporters. lnteresting vehicles and transport rigs are shown. This book has many ideas for model vehicle builders.
Cat & Zeppelin Ein halbes Jahrhundert in Deutschland (Cat & Zeppelin - half a century in Germany). By Heinz-Herbert Cohrs, Pub: Verlag Podszun Motorbücher GmbH, Elisabethstrasse 23-25, D-59929 Brilon, Germany. Tel: 02961/53213, Fax: 02961/2508, email: verlag.podszun@t-online.de German text. 208 pages, 215 colour, 129 b+w photos and 43 reprints from Caterpillar publications. Hardbound 280 x 210 mm; ISBN 3 86133-242 It can be found on construction sites all over the world, it reached cult status long ago, no other excavator, tracked vehicle, loader and dumper brand has more fans than CAT. About 50 years ago the old established firm of Zeppelin took over the sale and marketing of Caterpillar vehicles in Germany, later adding their own construction equipment. Now, in Germany, Zeppelin is associated not only with airships, but also with Caterpillar. Author Heinz-Herbert Cohrs, a mechanical engineer and expert on construction vehicle history, guides us through five decades of Caterpillar and Zeppelin in Germany. After a short history of Zeppelin, he covers that of Caterpillar. He describes the cooperation between these two makes, quoting driver and service reports and writing about the working days of the machines and drivers. The main part of the book documents all Caterpillar and Zeppelin vehicles and their development in the last 50 years with many contemporary photos, historic documents, graphics, adverts and pages from sales brochures.
Caterpillar 75 Jahre (75 Years) By Thomas Wilk, Pub. Podszun (see above), English and German text. 280 pages over 700 colour photos, hardbound, 280 x 220 mm, ISBN 3 86133-247-7 It all began for the author as an apprentice construction vehicle mechanic, the beginning of a wonderful friendship. He devoted his life to the legendary brand name. ln his holidays he travelled all around the world taking photos of these fascinating machines at work. Tractors, wheel loaders, tracked dozers, excavators, dumpers and scrapers, everything that bore the Caterpillar badge was put on film. Here are over 700 excellent pictures from his huge archive, plus clippings from interesting and rare sales brochures and other documents. The resulting book gives us a comprehensive summary of the history and development of Caterpillar.
Jahrbuch Baumaschinen 2001 (Year-book of Construction Vehicles), var authors, Pub. Podszun (see above), German text. 142 pp, 160 colour and 113 b+w photos, 10 prints; Paperbound 240 x 170mm ISBN 3-86133254-X This is the first time this yearbook has been published, in future it will be published in October every year. It contains a colourful mixture of different subjects connected with construction vehicles. Each article is too large to publish in a magazine, but not big enough to justify a complete book. The first issue contains some interesting topics from various authors, Heinz-Herbert Cohrs shows new construction vehicles and future trends, another article describes Le Tourneau, a designer genius and pioneer of conveyance technology, Horst-Dieter Gorg documents the history of construction vehicles from Hannover-Linden, Lower Saxony, from Hanomag to Komatsu, Georg Loehr chronicles Euclid-Terex and Joachim Wahl undertakes the construction vehicles programme of Kaelble.
Das Unimog Prospekte Buch (The Unimog Sales Brochure Book) By Wolfgang Wagner, Pub: Verlag Podszun Motorbücher GmbH, Elisabethstrasse 23-25, D-59929 Brilon, Germany. Tel: 02961/53213, Fax: 02961/2508, email: verlag.podszun@t-online.de German text. Hardbound 144 pages, many pictures in colour and b/w. lSBN 3-86133-254-X Since the Unimog was created, more than 320,000 of this Universalmotorgerat (Universal powered device) worldwide have been sold. The Unimog's unequalled career is due to its original concept as agricultural machine and its patented chassis, developed by its inventors Albert Friedrich and Heinrich Rossler. From the original 25 hp 'small green Unimog' to today's countryside giant, a work-ing machine and tractor of up to 280 hp is a story of more than fifty years of continuous development. The book contains many sales literature reprints, photographs and other pictures, a treasure chest for all Unimog model collectors.
TWO DRAGLINE KITS
By Tony SteenmeyerAS I had failed to obtain the dragline kit through his 'Continental Connection' (as noted in MAR 138, page 7144), I decided to contact Bill Barnes direct and see if he would be willing to supply the kits I wanted direct to me. Of course he would. The first one I received was the 19RB and he then told me that his 22RB would be available in two weeks' time. I ordered that one immediately and he assured me that mine would be the first. The castings in both kits are very good and all the parts fit well. The 19RB is easier to build than the 22RB, but mind you, this review is written by a scratchbuilder with his own designs and ideas! The 19RB is designed in such a way, (and it follows the prototype), that the whole body-cab of the upperworks can be lifted off the machinery deck. This makes it easy to build up the machinery: A-frame, bearings and drums. If anything goes wrong, it is easy to see what and where, and it is straightforward to resolve. The 22RB, on the other hand, has the cab divided in two horizontally at the colour break between yellow and brown. This means that you have to build the machinery side-frames with the drums, etc in a sort of box and if anything doesn't go the way you intend, altering it is not easy. The drumshafts cannot be pulled out once everything is in place, which you can with the 19RB. Going through my sales brochures and operator's manual, the construction of the 19RB would also have been prototypically appropriate for the 22RB. Putting it all together properly is not easy, but if you spend the necessary time, the 22RB builds into a very pleasing model of a late model mechanically controlled dragline. I altered mine a bit and added wooden walk-ing boards, (there were no Health and Safety regulations then to require mezzanines), worklights and hatches. I also opened up the top window above the operator's head. I also altered the trackbelt units slightly, according to my photos of the real thing. Both were exactly the same, which means there were not left and right units in my kit. I wonder if the 19RB is really 1:43 scale, because I feel that if it was that scale it would have been bigger. However, I don't have any 19RB brochures, so I may be wrong. The next model should be the 10RB. I can't wait!
LLEDO MARCH TO JUNE
Here are the planned diecast releases in the Lledo Days Gone diecast range from Corgi for March to June 2001 (Month of release in brackets - 3 = March etc):
DG066020 Dennis van Royal Mail (3)
DG100005 Ford 7V Royal Mail (3)
DG050036 Morris Bullnose van Eddie Stobart (3)
DG 013081Ford A van Eddie Stobart (3)
DG006161Ford T van Liptons (3)
DG127000 Morris Minor van London Herb+Spice (3)
DG052021 Morris parcels Fox's Glacier Mints (3)
DG013080 Ford A van Sunlight flakes (3)
DG085012Renault van Eddie Stobart (4)
DG059029Bedford box van Eddie Stobart (4)
DG068008 AEC Regent open top bus Bovril (4)
DG017028 AEC Regal bus London General (4)
DG066021 Dennis vanLyons Tea (4)
DG085013 Renault van Stork (4)
DG049023 AEC Renown Fry's Chocolate Cream (4)
DG500035 Morris Bullnose van Cockburn's port (4)
DG100006 Ford 7V Dettol (4)
DG021053 Chevrolet van Laphroaig whisky (5)
DG050037 Morris Bullnose van Lamb's rum (5)
DG071013 Morris LD van Beefeater gin (5)
DG068020 Morris Z van Glenfiddich whisky 95)
DG016040 Dennis van Twining's Tea
DG125000 Burrell Showman's engine Prestons (6)
DG126000 Burrell road roller (6)
Trackside Range 1:76
DG106001 Sentinel ballast tractor Bishops (3)
DG112002 Scammell low loader glass load BRS (4).
DG110001 Scammell low loader Wimpey (4)
DG124000 AEC Mammoth lowloader LNER(5)
DG123000 AEC Mammoth lowload+cable drums (6)
DG114000 AEC Mammoth ballast Brit Railway (6)
Anderton & Rowland Fairground Range 1:76
DG044031 Scammell 6 wheel waltzer (4)
DG112003 Scammell low load Winston-dodgems (4)
DG114001 AEC Mammoth ballast-generator (5)
DG110002 Scammell ballast Superb jungle (5)
DG125001 Burrell showmans engine (6)
DG123001 AEC Mammoth ballast Waltzer (6)
AR1002 Burrell showmans engine+card carousel (6)EAST OF OXFORD
Sadly we have to report that Oxford Die-Cast of Wales, the last remaining diecast model vehicle maker in Britain, has decided to transfer production to the Far East in future.
JOHN DAY 1:76 VEHICLES
A new range of 1:76 white metal kits has appeared in the last year, John Day Vehicle Scenics, based in Hereford. Yes, we think it is the same John Day. If you don't know who we are talking about, John Day was the pioneer in Britain of 1:43 white metal kits. This range consists of 1:76 vehicles, mostly with some added features, such as figures, loads, open bonnets or whatever. Some subjects look as if they may have been originally developed from obsolete diecast toys, but newer subject matter must be from original masters. Brief summary of the range:
Austin A30, Ford Anglia 100E, Riley 1.5 saloon
Austin A50 undergoing engine change
Ford ET6 coal, milk, refuse, cattle, tipper trucks
Ford Y saloon - wheel change, bonnet open
Bedford BYC van
Ford AA refuse truck, gulley emptier, breakdown, flat, luton van, coal truck, cattle truck, builders dropside,
2001 plans include: Rover 75 P4, Ford Squire estate car, Riley 2.5 DHC, Morris 6 saloon, Austin 12 1930, Humber 16-50, BMW 327/55 cabriolet, Ford 8 1933-37, followed by 1930s and 1950s commercial vehicles. Prices are £10.00 to £15.00 for kits, £13.00 to £19.00 built.K&R ESCORT RS TURBO
By Stephen Roff (K & R Replicas) The latest release in the K&R Replicas range is a Ford Escort Mk3 RS Turbo Series 1 (KR113). The retail kit price is £26. 00.
BANBURY AUCTION
On 17 March 2001 an auction will be held at John Atkins' home in Cropredy near Banbury, Oxfordshire. His collection, amassed over 40 years, will be auctioned by H&H Classic Auctions (tel 01925 730630, fax 01925 730830) and includes all kinds of automobilia. Over 200 model cars range from Dinky Toys to MPH handbuilt Le Mans models, and there are also limited edition prints, original artorks, petrol pumps and globes, enamel advertising signs, period costumes, handbooks, magazines and periodicals.
BEAULIEU MODEL SHOW
An exhibition called Motoring Through Childhood is to be held at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu, Hampshire from 3 April to the end of October. It will feature 2,000 exhibits recording the history of model cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles, from the earliest simple toys to today's highly detailed models. Much of the exhibition is centred around the collection of Ian Cummins, one of MAR's first stockists when he had his shop in Sydney. His collection will be auctioned in London once the exhibition finishes. The collection has never before been seen by the public, and features many unusual toys and models from the 1920s to the 1970s, many of which are Japanese, as well as Dinky, Corgi and Matchbox toys. Motoring through Childhood will also feature a large display of pedal cars. National Motor Museum Director Michael Ware, who has a particular interest in pedal cars, is hoping to secure important examples, including some from the Royal Household, and especially those with an unusual history. He is encouraging anyone with an interesting example to contact the museum. 'I'm sure there are many who have fond recollections of pedal cars, an important part of growing up', Michael Ware says. 'All model vehicles, but pedal cars in particular, seem to evoke memories, and may even have been responsible for turning some of us into car, truck or bus enthusiasts!' The exhibition is being co-ordinated by Mike and Sue Richardson who are talking to other collectors with a view to lending items for the exhibition. For more information, phone (01590) 612345, fax (01590) 612624, or email beaulieu@tcp.co.uk
RPM 1:12 VANTAGE
Andrew Lee tells us that the next project from his RPM Models range, hitherto 1:43 scale, will be a 1:12 scale Aston Martin Vantage Le Mans. Only 40 of the real cars were built, so there will be 40 handbuilt models, one of each real car. 'The price will be less than £1,000.00', promises Andrew. There will also be 100 to 150 kits made. More news when we have it...
CORGI USA COLLECTION
Here are the new diecast items for 2001 planned in Corgi's US range, mostly 1:50:
Heavy Haulers
US55103 Diamond T & Transformer Load Gerosa
US51401 International Transtar, Girder Trailer
US50705 Mack LJ Logger Litefoot Logging
US55702 Kenworth W925 low loader, boiler load
Fire & Rescue
US51503 ALF Turbo Chief San Francisco
US52207E-1 Sidemount Kansas City MO
US50402 Huey Iroquois Helicopter LA Fire Dept
US50501 Seagrave 70th Anniv Pumper Columbus
US53802 Mack CF Tower Ladder San Francisco
US50502 Seagrave 70th Anniv Pumper Tampa FL
Unsung Heroes
US50103 M151 A1 Mutt Recoilless Rifle & trailer
US50403 UH-1E USMC Huey Frog Gunship
Texaco
US52307 Mack B Series Pumper Texaco
US55703 Knworth W925 Semi tanker Texaco
US52308 Mack B Series Wrecker Texaco
Vintage Bus
US54308 GM 5300 Fishbowl New York Transit
US55018 PCC Streetcar Pittsburgh
US53403 MCI 102 DL3 Coach USABOOK REVIEWS
FIAT MODEL CARS from 1899 by Bruno Libero Boracco, Pub: Clerico Editore Torino, Italy, A4 Softbound 140pp. Profusely illustrated in colour. ISBN 88-87130-24-8. Text in English and Italian. Price 59, 000 Lire. Model Auto Review readers are familiar with Bruno Boracco's expertise on model cars, through his '1:43 scale and thereabouts' coverage of Italian car subjects in this magazine. The same scale context is used in this book, to cover every circa 1:43 scale Fiat model car, plus all derivative marques. Abarth, Autobianchi, Cisitalia, Dallara, Giannini, Osca, Siata, Ferves, Ghia, Osi, Vignale, Concord, Sevel, Lada, NSU, Polski, Premier, Seat, Simca, Steyr-Puch and Zastava all produced Fiat-based or licence-built cars, and all are included here. The main part of the book pictures the models in colour, with detailed descriptions, the rest of the book being an index of every known model, including some not pictured. For once, almost the whole story of a car manufacturer's output over a century can be told in model form, thanks to ranges such as Rio, Dugu etc which covered the older cars, and the story is well told by Bruno in this excellent study, which will be essential work of reference for all Fiat fans. Rod Ward
THE MOST FAMOUS CAR IN THE WORLD: The Complete History of the James Bond Aston Martin DB5, by Dave Worrall. Published by Solo Publishing, PO Box 1570, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 4XS. 164 pages, softbound A4, copiously illustrated. £15.95 plus £4.00 p&p (UK), plus £8.00 p&p elsewhere, available direct from the publishers. This book was originally published in hard covers in 1991, but this is the updated edition in soft covers. Dave Worrall's Solo company specialises in James Bond merchandise of all kinds, and this book is his flagship product. It is an excellent example to anyone attempting a one-make or model history, telling you everything you'll ever need to know about the development of the cars, their movie appearances, the gadgets, the characters and every bit of background you could ask for. Many model cars were based on the Bond DB5, and these are extensively covered in the book, from the unique ride-in version built by Aston Martin apprentices and presented to Prince Andrew, to the many toy versions made by Corgi and other companies. Dave also operates the James Bond Collectors Club from the same address, which is a non-profit organisation linking collectors of James Bond models and memorabilia. This book is highly recommended to model car collectors, Aston Martin enthusiasts, movie buffs... Oh yes, and James Bond fans as well. Rod Ward
TOY CARS OF JAPAN AND HONG KONG by Andrew G Ralston, Pub: Schiffer Publishing Ltd, 4880 Lower Valley Road, Atglen, PA 19310, USA (distributed in Europe by Bushwood Books, 6 Marksbury Ave, Kew Gardens, Surrey TW9 4JF) ISBN 0-7643-1196-4. Very little has been written about the early diecast model cars from Japan and nothing at all about those 1950s and 1960s plastic toy cars from Hong Kong. This book goes a long way to rectify this situation. The book does not purport to be a comprehensive listing of everything made on the subject (an almost impossible task). The author, does, however give an interesting insight into the Japanese toy industry in the post war years, firstly dealing with the explosion of tinplate toys, then onto the early Japanese diecast models from such names as Model Pet and Cherryca Phenix. These chapters are lavishly illustrated with colour photographs of an impressive selection of Japanese tinplate models. These range from some of the superb tinplate models of American cars, as well as a selection of interesting models of British and European cars. This leads on to the section dealing with the early diecasts, from the relatively unknown models by the likes of Linemar and Marusan to the better known ranges from Model Pet, Micro Pet and Cherryca Phenix. Once again there are plenty of wonderful colour photographs of mint and boxed items from these manufacturers to drool over. Lastly there is a very interesting section about the rise of the Hong Kong toy industry from 1948. The author has done some excellent research on this subject (as he has with the whole book) with some interest-ing insights into some of the companies which produced all those wonderful plastic toy cars which were around in the shops during the 1950s and 1960s, and which most collectors totally ignored. Many of these items are now worth a second glance, and some fetch considerable amounts of money compared to their original cost. Once again this chapter is illustrated with an interesting selection of these items from manufacturers such as Clifford, Cragstan, Telsalda, and Lucky Toys, to mention just a few, many of which are now rare indeed. A price guide is included, in US$. I personally hate price guides, but as it takes up very little space in the book it can be easily ignored. At the end of the book there is a comprehensive checklist of early Japanese diecasts plus a glossary of some of the manufacturers and trademarks. The book is hardback and contains 160 pages and is crammed with more than 300 colour photographs. An absolute must for the serious collector. Jim McLachlan
The Complete Story of Fire Engines in Russia from 1700 to 2000. By Dmitry Gladky, published by Russian Motor Books, printed in Estonia. Text in English. 112 pages, over 500 photographs. As noted briefly in MAR 149, this is a new book about Russian and Soviet fire engines. The contents include: fire carts, fire engines in Russia before 1917, Soviet fire engines from 1917 to 1941 (fire pumpers, tankers, chemical extinguishers, aerial ladders, special purpose trucks), fire-fighting trucks in the Second World War, Soviet fire engines from 1945 to 1965, fire engines from 1965 to 1991 (tankers, pumpers, foam extinguishers on truck chassis, dry powder extinguishers, aerial ladders, snorkels etc), fire trucks since 1991, and other types of motor vehicles used by the Russian fire service. Sergei Govorov
FIRST WITH THE NEWS
By Hans-Georg SchmittHere are some brief notes collected from the 2001 Nuremberg Toy Fair. More detailed news items on many of these ranges will follow in MAR 151 and 152.
ADP: 1:43 Garant truck. 1:87 Opel Kapitan 1939, Adler Autobahn saloon, EMW 340.
ANSON: 1:18 Peerless 1931, Packard Cabriolet 1934, Plymouth Fury 1957 (like 'Christine'), Cadillac Escalade, Dodge Durango, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Terradyne, Cadillac 806, Dodge Dakota, BMW 2002
Turbo, Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda, Porsche GT3, BMW 635, Mercedes C Class saloon, Renault Spyder, BMW 1602 Jägermeister.
AWM: 1:87 Volkswagen Passat 2001, Peugeot 206, Volkswagen Sharan 2001.
BBURAGO: 1:18 Fiat 500 VW New Beetle racer, BMW Z8, New Mini.
BREKINA: 1:87 Trabant P50 1958, Auto Union 1000S Coupe, Unimog 411, Krupp LF 960.
BUSCH: 1:87 Renault 4cv, Audi A4
DETAIL CARS: 1:43 MGB, MGF, Ford Mustang Mach II, Porsche Carrera RSR, Renault Clio Maxi, Land Rover Freelander (contrary to last year's announcement of no new releases)
ELIGOR: 1:43 Renault Juva 4, Peugeot 203 estate, Peugeot 403 estate, Race transporters Jaguar, Prost, Arrows, Jordan, Sauber, BAR.
ERTL: 1:18 Cord 812 and Duesenberg Sport. Plus lots of 1:25 models exhibited as new, but with no information about them.
GUILOY: 1:18 Delahaye 135
GUISVAL: 1:43 Toyota Corolla, Ford Escort Cosworth WRC, Seat 600.
JOAL: 1:35 Sisu Valmet 860 forestry vehicle, 1:50 Komatsu PC1100 LC-6, D155 AX.
JADI: 1:18 new Mini
MAISTO: 1:18 Chevrolet Impala taxi - police, Mercedes 300SLR, Ford Explorer pickup, Jaguar X400, Ford Thunderbird, New Mini Cooper, Opel Speedster, Chevelle 1966 etc.
MINICHAMPS: 1:18 Porsche Pink Pig, Porsche 965L LM 83, Alfa Spyder 70, BMW 3.0 CSL 71, Opel rekord P1 estate, 1:43 Alfa T33 road 68, Maybach Zeppelin 1932, Toyota RAV 2 2000, Volvo 121, 1:24 VW
Karmann Ghia reissued.
NZG: 1:50 Terex TR60 and CAT 797 dumpers.
REVELL: 1:43 economy range, which looks like the series developed for Del Prado.
REVIVAL: 1:20 Auto Union record car
SCHUCO: 1:18 Mercedes-Benz 170V saloon and ambulance, Beetle saloon and cabrio, 1:43 motorcycles: BMW R25/3 with or without sidecar, BMW K1200LT, NSU Max, 1:43 cars Opel Speedster, Rover 75 (finally),
1:43 tractors: Porsche Junior, Fendt Dieselross.
SOLIDO: having taken over Spain's Mira, many of their models will appear in the Solido range. 1:18 New Mini, Citroen Xsara T4 WRC, Misubishi Pajero rally, Jaguar XKR, 1:10 racing karts, 1:43 Peugeot
406 Coupe, New Mini, BMW Z8, Alfa Romeo 147.
WELLY: 1:18 new Mini, Porsche 911 turbo, Lamborghini Diablo SV, Chevrolet fleetmaster woody 1948, Ford F1 pickup 1951, VW New Beetle, Honda S2000, Chevrolet long-cab Silverado pickup, BMW Z8
WIKING: 1:87 Volvo PV544, MAN TGA XXL, Mercedes-Benz 280SL Pagoda, Mercedes-Benz Econic fire appliance. Reissued larger scale old promotional models: Menck excavator and Clark fork lift.
YAT MING: 1:18 Ford T fire appliance, Ford F650 artic tractor, Ford F250 pickup 1959, Pontiac Trans-Am 1969, 1979 and 1999, Plymouth Coupe 1941, Shelby Series 1 1999, VW Microbus 1962 with sliding
roof. 1:43 Ford V8 Convertible 1937, Edsel Citation 1958, Cadillac Coupe de Ville 1949, Ford pickup 1934, Ford three window coupe 1932.
Overview: Too many New Minis? We will end up with the same over-supply situation we had with the New Beetle! Some companies were very reluctant to give any information to the press on their 2001
plans, very strange. They must have their reasons. Otherwise, some very interesting planned releases if they all come out (many more than are noted here: all will be revealed in MAR issues to follow).
STARTER JOINS WITH PM
Remy Elkoubi of Provence Moulage informs us of the 'marriage', of Provence Moulage (18 years old), and Starter (17 years old) in January 2001. The plan is for these two French resin ranges not to compete with each other, instead in future PM will offer kits, and Starter will sell fully finished models. This should avoid some of the past unnecessary duplication of subjects between the ranges, and may mean that certain PM subjects which were only available as kits may be sold handbuilt as well in future. Among Starter 1:43 handbuilt resin models planned are:
LM068 Audi R8 #8 Le Mans 2000
SL030 Audi R8 #7 Le Mans 2000
SL031 Audi R8 #9 Le Mans 2000
SL032 Courage C52 Peugeot #16 LM 2000
T187 Peugeot 406 Taxi ('from the movie')
R169 Audi Quattro #1 Pikes Peak 1986 white
T188 Porsche RSR Turbo 00 Daytona77
T189 Aston Martin AMR1 #18 Le Mans 1989
T190 Aston Martin AMR1 #19 Le Mans 1989
T191 Porsche Moby Dick Riverside .
T186 Peugeot 406 Taxi (March)
SL033 Cadillac LMP #1 LM 2000 (March)
SL034 Cadillac LMP #2 LM 2000 (March)
SL035 Cadillac LMP #3 LM 2000 (March)Gaso. line AFV NEWS
By Olivier Saint-lot, ProkitIn order to optimise production for this year, we have decided to delete some models from Gasoline range for 2001, listed here;
50806M Dodge M6
50809M Ersatz Panther/TD M10
50810M Sherman Duplex Drive
50812M Sherman M4A1 cast hull
50813M Sherman mineroller T1E3 Aunt Jemima
50819MT Pz IV with schürzen, Thoma
50822M Bergepanzer IV
50824M Hanomag Sd. Kfz.251/9, 75 mm short gun
50829M Half-track US M6 with 37 mm
50833MO Bergepanther
50837M Hanomag Sd. Kfz. 251/17
50839M Panther 20mm flakvierling
50840M Panther with Pz. IV turret
We have also decided to change production for 2001. We will only make the exact quantity pre-ordered by our retail stockists. After we have fulfilled all advance orders, models will not be available again for at least six months.
January-February releases:
48802M Jagdpanzer Hetzer
50006MS flame thrower tank Pz. Kfw. B2 Arnhem
50070M Self propelled gun 105mm leFH 18/3 B2
50055M Armoured car Sd. Kfz. 221 (sand or grey)
50811M Sherman Bulldozer
50852M M35A1 gun truck Corgi base (80 made)VEREM FIRST QUARTER
Here are the planned releases from Verem of France for the first quarter of 2001:
9531 Berliet Foam projector airport military
9615 Dodge Command Car military
4104 Hotchkiss Fire appliance
845 Citroen C4F Pinder public address
270 Renault 4F La Poste
9027 Renault R35 Tank
271 Peugeot Expert La Poste
4106 Hotchkiss Fire appliance L'Essonne
9532 Dodge 4 x 4 with gun
3018 Peugeot 205 4 door grey metallic
272 Land Rover 109 EDF France
846 Dodge 4 x 4 Pinder + cage trailer (April)
275 Citroen CX Break Gendarmerie (April)
137 Willys Jeep + Boat sea rescue Bastia (April)
9616 Citroen C35 Ambulance Military (April)
SM60 Sherman M41A3 76mm (April)
926 Renault Premium La Poste (May)
274 Citroen 2CV Gendarmerie airport (May)
3103 Peugeot 205 4 door Paris fire (May)
456 Citroen 2CV 6 1975 grey (June)
138 Renault Kangoo + Zodiac Paris Fire (June)
9617 Berliet 4 x 4 Securité Civile (June)
SM50 Panther F Tank (June)De POLIGNY PROPOSALS
Here are the planned releases from De Poligny of France for 2001, a new range of quality metal models in 1:43 scale:
09803 Alpine A110 1100 1963
10002 Alpine A110 1300 1966
95732 Citroen Traction 22CV Saloon 1934
10004 Citroen Traction 22CV Faux-cabrio 1934
09804 Citroen DS 23 iE 1973
09703 Citroen SM 1970
10003 Citroen 2CV 4 Special 1976
09704 Citroen 2CV 6 1980
09601 Facel-Vega Prototype Paris Show 1954
09802 Facel-Vega FV1 Cabriolet 1955
94801 Facel-Vega Facel II 1962
09706 Renault 4CV 1946 Paris Show
10006 Renault 4CV 1063 no 108 1951
10001 VW Beetle split 1951 decouvrable.
09705 VW 1200 Beetle oval window 1953
10101 Peugeot 203 saloon (March)
10102 Renault Dauphine (April)
10103 Alpine A110 1600S (April)
10104 Simca Versailles (May)TEKHOBY PEUGEOTS
Here are 1:43 resin handbuilt models planned by Tek Hoby of France for March release:
014 Peugeot 402B 1939 civilian
015 Peugeot 402B 1939 GendarmeriePARADCAR PLANS
Planned 1:43 handbuilt models by Paradcar of France for the first quarter of 2001:
092 Citroen XM Break
093 Peugeot 406 BREAK 1999
081 Opel Kapitan 1958 4 door
087 Opel Rekord B 4 door 1966
088 Opel Rekord B Coupe
089 Opel Rekord B Coupe 6 Cyl
085 Peugeot 202 Saloon 1938
086 Peugeot 202 Cabriolet 1938
094 Mara Murena (March)
072 Alpine Renault GT4 2 + 2 (March)
091 Citroen CX 2000 (April)
095 Renault 21 two-box (May)CEF-REPLEX PLANS
Here are the planned releases from CEF-Replex of France for the first quarter of 2001:
412 RVI SIDES Fire van Paris (April)
413 RVI SIDES Fire van Super detail (May)
419 RENAULT car recovery vehicle civil yellow
420 RENAULT car recovery vehicle Gendarmerie
421 RENAULT car recovery vehicle Police (Mar)
379V TRM700-100T tractor unit green camo
380V LOHR artic tank transporter green camo
379S TRM700-100T tractor unit sand camo
380S LOHR artic tank transporter sand camoSOME BRIGHT SPARKS
Spark is a new 1:43 resin range from France. Here are the planned releases for early 2001:
SCRS01 RILEY & SCOTT Mark III LM99 #31
SCRS02 RILEY & SCOTT Mark III LM99 #32
SCRS03 AUTOEXE LM99 #24
SCRS04 RILEY & SCOTT Mark III LM98 #21
SCLA02 LOLA T98/10 LM99 #25
SCLA03 LOLA T98/10 LM99 #26
SCLA04 LOLA T98/10 LM99 #27MINIROUTE 1:43 PLANS
Here are the planned 1:43 handbuilt releases from Miniroute of France for early 2001:
57 CITROEN D6 Pickup FR3
58 CITROEN C6 Torpedo open1930
53 SIMCA 1500 Pickup fire
59 VW Beetle Baja Paris-Dakar
56BH MERCEDES 250T Ambulance Holland
60 CITROEN 15 NH 6-light saloon 1934 (Mar)
61 RENAULT 800kg Civilian 1937 (April)
62 CITROEN DS Currus Ambulance (May)
63 CITROEN DS Currus ORTF (June)
64 CITROEN DS Currus hearse June
20 CITROEN H Tub Police (reissue)
21 SIMCA 1200S (reissue)SOLIDO SPECIALS
Some special Solido issues planned for 2001:
98010 Renault Master Fire VSAB
98011 Peugeot 806 Fire Strasbourg
98008 Renault Master Camper (April)MINISTAR FERRARIS
A couple of 1:43 Ferraris are promised by Ministar of France for the first quarter of 2001:
23 Ferrari 400 Long
24 Ferrari 400 Felber (April)MINISTYLE 1:43 MODELS
Ministyle of France intend to release these 1:43 resin handbuilt models for 2001:
62 Peugeot 306 shooting break
63 Marta-Renault Zoom
64 Citroen CX Prototype XM (March)
65 Peugeot Bobsled (April)
66 Peugeot Kart up (May)
67 Citroen CX Cabriolet Orphée (June)Nizhny Novgorod SHOW
By Evgeny M SmirnovFurther to the short note in MAR 149, here is a little more about the exhibition of about 250 models dedicated to the history of motoring, the first in Nizhny Novgorod. I have been collecting models of old cars for 20 years and displayed a quarter of my collection of over 800 items. It opened on 30 October at the Dobrolyubov Museum in Nizhny Novgorod, attended by about 60 people, from local TV stations, newspapers, the International Dept of the Nizhny Novgorod Administration, the GAZ auto plant, collectors, friends and families. My friend Jack Tempest, the UK journalist, came as well. There were thematic sections including TV-related, early models (old tinplate, plastic and glass); veterans, racing and sports cars; club models and memorabilia; books, magazines; posters, candles, mugs, pencil sharpeners etc. A special section included cars and carriages of Popes, Monarchs, Presidents, actors, 'villains' (Stalin, Hitler) etc. A special flavour was added by over 30 cars, trucks and buses exquisitely handmade by two Nizhny Novgorod modellers Igor Bortsov and Vladimir Novoselov. The exhibition closed on 13 January 2001.
BANG PLANS FOR 2001
New releases planned for this year in Bang's 1:43 diecast range from Italy:
7205 Alfa Giulietta spider Veloce TdeF 56 #43 red
7214 Mercedes 300SL 52 Coupe MM 52 #623 met grey
7215 Dino 246 GT Giro d'Italia 75 #358white Temi
7229 Ferrari 250 TR Proto 1000 km. 58 #7 red V Trips
7233 Alfa Giulietta SZ TdeF 60#131 white De Luca
7236 Alfa Romeo 2000 Sprint Old car races red
7239 Ferrari 250 GTO Silverstone 62 #.31 blue Parkes
7240 Mercedes 300SL 52 Coupe Bern 52 #16 brown
7241 Mercedes 300SL 52 Coupe Street 52 met-grey
7243 Mercedes 300SL 52 spider Ring 52 #23 met grey
7245 Ferrari 412P Bloemfontein 68 #5 green Piper
7248 Alfa Giulietta spider Veloce Sestiere 58 #48 red
7249 Maserati 450S Street 57 red
7250 Maserati 450S Sweden 57#7 red Behra
7251 Maserati 450S MM 57 #537 red Moss-Jenkinson
7252 Maserati 450S Sebring 57 #l9 red Behra-Fangio
7253 Mercedes 300SL 52 Coupe LM 52 #20 met-grey
7255 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Street 62 white
7256 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Street 62 dark-mink
7257 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Street 62 met-grey
7258 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Street 62 black
7259 Alfa Romeo 2600 Sprint Polizia 62 green
7262 Ferrari 250 TDF Reims 58 #84 white Mairesse
7263 Mercedes 300SL Coupe Carrera 52 #3 met grey
7264 Mercedes 300 SL Coupe Carrera 52 #4 met-grey
1036 Ferrari 250 GT MM re-run 98 #362 red
1037 Ferrari 250 Sperimentale USA 62yellowBRUMM FOR 2001
These models are included in Brumm's plans for their 1:43 scale range for 2001:
A005 Lotus 25 plus chassis Jim Clark 1963 (above)
A006 Fiat Nuova 500 57 open launch version (above)
CC5 Fiat Nuova 500 1957 closed launch version
R322 BRM P57 1962 Hill no 17 Holland
R323 BRM P57 1962 Hill no 14 Italy
R322B BRM P57 1962 Ginther no 18 Holland
R324 BRM P57 1962 Ginther no 12 Italy
R325 Mercedes-Benz W196C Fangio 1954 GB no 1
R325B Mercedes-Benz W196C Kling 1954 GB no 2
R326 Mercedes-Benz W196C Kling 1954 Avus no 4
R327 Porsche 550RS von Frankenburg 55 Avus no 15
R328 Fiat 1100E van Shell Oil
R329 Fiat 1100E van Motta ice cream
R330 Fiat 600 Multipla Olio Fiat
R331 Lotus 25 Clark Belgium 1963 no 1
R331B Lotus 25 Taylor Belgium 63 no 2
R332 Lotus 25 Clark Italy 63 no 8
S00/01 Alfa Romeo 158 plated
S053 Alfa Romeo 158 Farina Italy 50 no 10
S054 Alfa Romeo 158 Fangio France 50 no 6
S055 Alfa Romeo 158 Fagioli Swiss 50 no 12
R333 Fiat 600 Multipla D - six colour variants
R334 Fiat 600 Multipla Milan taxi with roofrack
R335 Fiat 600 Multipla Auto Club Modena service
R336 Fiat 600D driving school
R337 Porsche 917K Daytona 70 no 3 Ahrens-Elford
R338 Porsche 917K LM 71 no 57 Martin-Pillon
R339 Porsche 917K Monza 70 no 11 Piper-Adamovicz
R340 Fiat Nuova 500 57 Economica open - six colours
R341 Fiat Nuova 500 57 Economica closed-six colours
R342 Fiat Nuova 500 1957 Normale open - six colours
R343 Fiat Nuova 500 57 Normale closed- six colours
R344 Fiat 1100E van Mobilgas
R345 Fiat 500C van Lavazza
R346 Fiat 1100E van LavazzaAUDI'S SMALLER BROTHER
By Hans-Georg SchmittIn November 2000 the new Audi A4 saloon arrived at German dealers, new but bearing a family resemblance to the rest of the range. The new A4 has been slightly stretched, with 60mm more wheelbase, benefiting rear seat passengers who were short of legroom in the previous model. The high grade interior is similar to the A6. In the new engine range includes a two litre 130 hp four cylinder petrol engine, a 1.8 litre 150 hp turbocharged engine. Top of the range is a new three litre 200 hp V6 petrol engine, and also available are various diesel engines from 115 to 180 hp. Transmission choices include manual five or six speed, automatic five speed, or stepless multitronic transmission. For the launch of their new car Audi had scale models on show in the Audi Authentic Collection. Each model comes in a clear plastic box in a white and silver card box with the Audi logo and a short description. In 1:43 scale the miniature comes from Minichamps, the shape reproduced perfectly. The lights look just like the originals,, but the upper radiator grille is not as distinctly trapezium-shaped as it should be. The interior and wheels are also good, and the baseplate is adequately detailed. The same is true of the 1:87 scale model, this time made by Busch, a wise decision, apparent when the model is examined. The body shape, interior, wheels and baseplate correspond with the original perfectly. The metallic paintwork is absolutely fault-free and the separate lights and radiator-grilles are fitted with no gaps. Both models are available from all Audi-dealers under these order numbers:
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:43 denim blue 2.00.000.00.957.001
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:43 delphin grey 2.00.000.00.957.002
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:43 light silver 2.00.000.00.957.003
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:43 ebony black 2.00.000.00.957.004
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:87 denim blue 2.00.000.00.956.001
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:87 delphin-grey 2.00.000.00.956.002
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:87 light-silver 2.00.000.00.956.003
Audi A4 MJ2000 1:87 ebony-black 2.00.000.00.956.004Other interesting items in the Audi Authentic collection include two exciting Audi cars. Quattro GmbH was set up at Neckarsulm for special projects in the Audi programe, up to now restricted to producing fashion accessories, sports options and individual interiors, but since early 2000 the 98 strong team has attracted attention by creating a complete car, the extra-sporting Audi A4 Avant, named the RS4., based on the old A4, available in Avant form until Autumn 2001. It has a 2.7 litre 380 hp V6 biturbo engine, permanent four wheel drive and a manual six speed gearbox. The body has added spoilers and new bumpers. In 1:43 scale Minichamps have made this high-performance Audi. The shape is flawless, all details are accurate and fit perfectly. The model is available from Audi dealers under the following order number:
Audi RS4 1:43 Avus-silver 2.00.000.00.876.001
Audi RS4 1:43 misano-red 2.00.000.00.876.002
Audi RS4 1 :43 brilliant-black 2.00.000.00.876.003
Unfortunately the Audi allroad quattro, a cross-country-estate base on the A6 Avant, is only available in 1:87 scale. by Rietze, well detailed, and the metallic paint is fault-free. These models are only available from Audi dealers under these numbers:
Audi allroad quattro Highland green 2.00.000.00.947.001
Audi allroad quattro Atlas grey 2.00.000.00.947.002
In January 2001 the allroad appeared in 1:43 scale, with these order numbers:
Audi allroad quattro Highland green 2.00.000.00904.001
Audi allroad quattro Atlas grey 2.00.000.00.947.002
Mr KODAMA'S CORSAS
By Hans-Georg SchmittThe Opel-Vauxhall Corsa B, designed by Hideo Kodama of Japan, was a great success and in Autumn 2000 its successor, the Corsa C, appeared in showrooms. The Corsa C is 70mm longer and 30mm wider, a completely new platform which will allow for later estate, pickup and possibly an mpv. In Spring 2001 it is available as three door saloon, then the five door will follow. The first cars are built in Zaragossa, Spain or Eisenach, Germany. Later they will also be made at Azambuja, Portugal. Brazil (Chevrolet) and Australia (Holden). The 1:43 model (above) is made by Minichamps, and the new crisper design has been reproduced very well. From the Opel badge in the grille to the rear lights, now in the C-pillars like Fiats, it is very accurate, including wheels and baseplate. The interior is outstanding, all three head rests are there and even the seat belt locks are included. It is available from Opel dealers, part no 1799534.
VAUXHALL-OPEL SPORTS
By Hans-Georg SchmittThe concept of the Opel Speedster, only 1.11m tall, derives from the Lotus Elise. To save time and cost, Lotus helped Opel and Vauxhall to get a real sports car. The layout is similar to the Lotus, but for the overall shape, the Opel design team, led by Briton Martin Smith, went their own way with hard edges. Both Opels and Vauxhalls are built at the Lotus factory, the first cars delivered in April. In late 2000 the first models of the Speedster appeared, first in 1:43 scale, by Schuco, the edgy design excellently reproduced. The wheels also look authentic, the baseplate looks plain, but it is realistic. The outer rear view mirrorsare also authentically fragile. Collectors will have to handle the model very carefully. From the parent company of Schuco, Dickie-Tamiya, come three larger models of the Speedster. First is a collectors model, highly detailed in 1:12 scale, then two electric powered remote control models in 1:12 and 1:10 scales. Both 1:12. models are red with a silver roof, the 1:10 version is metallic silver. For small children the Speedster is also available as pedal car, developed jointly by Opel and Ferbedo.
OPEL'S LATE DELIVERY
By Hans-Georg SchmittIn February 1969 the new big Opel cars were launched in Nice, on the Cote d'Azur. lt was necessary to win this market, so important for the prestige of the marque. The flagship of the Kapitan-Admiral-Diplomat range had a choice of 2.8 litre six cylinder 165 hp petrol injection engine, the Diplomat E, or a 5.4 litre 230 hp twin carb V8 engine, the Diplomat V8. This version only had a three speed auto gearbox, made in the GM Strasbourg plant. The car had all the goodies of the time and some, like electric windows, seat-belts or fog-lamps, were optional extras. Buyers could also have climate control, radio, lock-up differential and much more. In 1969 there were three differently-equipped cars, the Kapitan, the Admiral and the Diplomat, then after a while the Kapitan was deleted, but even this and some minor face-lifts could not improve sales. Increasing fuel costs and the dominance of BMW and Mercedes-Benz in this market segment led to poor sales. When the range was terminated in 1977, apart from 11,017 Kapitans, only 31,827 Admirals and 18,725 Diplomats had been built, not an outstanding result. The Diplomat was the last big Opel car with a V8 engine, so it has been chosen as the second model in the new Oldtimer Car Collection, following the Opel Manta A, also due to Opel's plan to fit the Omega with the V8 engine from the Chevrolet Corvette. This plan was cancelled, because GM, and thus also Opel, has to save money. The order went to Minichamps, the model was ready in time for release at Christmas, but packaging problems delayed deliveries to Opel dealers, so the models were first available in late January 2001, as catalogue number 1799031. This model is wine red with a black vinyl roof. An Opel-only version will be made later in gold metallic, also with a vinyl roof. This impressive car has been accurately reproduced in 1:43 scale by Minichamps. The body shape is accurate and all the many mouldings are there. The interior is authentic, these wheels were first made in 1969 and the baseplate is well detailed, the independent front suspension and De Dion rear axle are clearly visible, as is the exhaust system with two separate rear silencers. The finish is so good, that even the rubber protectors on the bumpers are printed in the exact shape. Opel collectors can mark Easter in their diary, as then the next model will be available, a 1:43 Opel Olympia Cabriolet-Saloon from 1952.
OPELS FROM POLAND
By Hans-Georg SchmittIn Summer 2000 Opel presented their new mini-mpv to the public, smaller than the Corsa in its outer dimensions, but with more internal space and possibilities to change it from a five-seater car to a van. The car was developed by Suzuki engineers in Japan, with a number of Opel specialists, then the production line was installed at the new Opel plant at Gliwice, Upper Silesia, Poland. With its fresh colours outside and in, a pleasant design and the flexible interior, the smallest car in the Opel range found many friends. The car was available in miniature, before the launch of the real car, from Opel dealers. The 1:43 model (left) is made by Minichamps and has all features of the original, giving an excellent appearance, with realistic interior, good wheels and a well-detailed baseplate.
REVELL 2001 DIECAST
Here are the releases planned by Revell of Germany for this year, all 1:18 diecast in China. The quarter of release is in Roman numerals; (II = April to June, etc):
08414 VW Beetle cabriolet top up blue III
08415 VW Beetle cabriolet top down white III
08416 Alfa Romeo Giulietta spider 1962 red IV
08417 Alfa Romeo Giulietta spider 1962 white IV
08418 Wartburg 311 Coupe red-cream II
08419 Wartburg 311 Coupe black-white II
08440 Eriba Puck trailer caravan, towed by Lloyd Alexander TS 1958 II (Eriba Puck shown above)
08859 Borgward Isabella Coupe two tone grey I
08411 Borgward Isabella Cabrio open silver I
08986 BMW Isetta + camping trailer white-blue I
08421 Opel Manta B GT/E yellow II
08422 Opel Manta B GT/E white II
08412 NSU 1100C beige II
08413 NSU TTS red II
08858 Auto Union 1000S coupe red I
08410 Auto Union 1000S coupe yellow I
08857 Audi TT Roadster chrome finish I
08985 Audi TT Coupe silver I
08420 Auto Union Type C Avus streamliner I
In Revell's 1:12 diecast series, new model for 2001 is the BMW-built new Mini Cooper, in red (08451) or green (08450) for fourth quarter release.NEWS FROM THE RIALTO
By Jan MiedemaMy 1:43 Rialto model of the Opel Omega 2000 (the update of the 1995 version) will soon be available, and I hope that there will be a Vauxhall Omega version as well. The model will be based on the diecast Schuco 1027 Opel. For the Vauxhall version of course I need a right hand drive version, if one was ever produced for Vauxhall by Schuco. (I don't think it ever was. Ed.) I am also going to make a transkit for the Vauxhall VX220, the donor model will be the 1:43 Schuco Opel Speedster. The transkit will have these parts: rhd dash-board; V-shaped grille; new passenger footrest; photo-etched perforated pedals (lhd pedals must be cut off, and are thus lost); photo-etched screen wiper (lhd version points to the wrong side), decals. It would be pity if no VX220 model was available, the V-shaped grille gives the Vauxhall better looks than the Opel, in my opinion. I also plan to release 1:43 Zagato bodied Jaguars, the XK140 and XK150, for release around May 2001.
CREATIVE MASTERS
Revell of Germany will in future be distributing these 1:20 diecast models in Europe, made in China for the USA:
08670 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray 1967
08671 Shelby Cobra 427 no 98
08672 Dodge Viper 1999
08673 Ford GT40 Le Mans 1969 no 6
08674 Chevrolet Camaro Z/28 1969GUILOY FROM SPAIN
Here are the planned diecast releases from Guiloy of Spain for the first quarter of 2001:
68580 Delahaye 135 Figoni 1938 (1:18)
16261 Honda NSR500 Valentino (1:6 motorcycle)
16265 Honda NSR500 Criville (1:6 motorcycle)
13616 Honda NSR500 Rossi (1:10 motorcycle)
13617 Honda NSR500 Capirossi (1:10 m'cycle)
16319 Suzuki RGV500 Roberts (1:10 motorcycle)
13643 Honda NSR500 Criville (1:10 motorcycle)
13644 Yamaha YZR 500 Abe (1:10 motorcycle)
13652 Yamaha YZR 500 McCoy (1:10 motorcycle)PARTWORKS PARADE
By Maz WoolleyThe gremlins got into Del Prado's part-work system, 64 and 65 came out of sequence! #64 1960 Renault Dauphine four door saloon, yellow (light custard?). Paint is thick, a shame as the model is finely cast. It has to be derived from the Solido. Baseplate detail is limited, only the exhaust picked out. Detail is quite good, tampo printed badging front and rear but no front indicators, not even a dab of silver paint, whilst the rears are separate plastic items. Wheels-tyres quite good, though entirely chrome wheels are not accurate. . #65 1964 Peugeot 404 four door saloon, silver-grey metallic. Super model, must have started life as the Vitesse 404, though some details such as number plates are missing. There is fair base detail and a good, but unadorned, interior tub. Matt black over riders, nice badging, well finished lights with separate lenses at front, lacquer over silver at the rear. #66 Lancia Delta HF Integrale 1987 White four door, left hand drive (but they all were!). Lancia's answer to the Audi Quattro, the model seems not be quite right. It looks a bit 'dumpy' and fat rather than looking like a neat family saloon with a testosterone overdose! The detailing is similarly erratic, a good Lancia badge at the rear but none on the front grille. The wheels are accurate, but without matt black infill they look like cheap wheel covers from a car spares shop rather than expensive alloys. Good mirrors, grille and lights cannot rescue the model from being average, base plate detail is extremely sketchy. #67 Toyota Land Cruiser 1998 light metallic grey-green right hand drive. A better model, but the subject is less to my taste. Full of detail including acres of chrome, step, mirrors, bull bars, and wheels. Good roof bars, wipers, grille, and matt black window details. It even has the odd extra mirror on the leading edge of the passenger side wing. Huge wheels, maybe too wide even for this vehicle! Baseplate detailing finishes the model off. I enjoyed Ron Gersbank's article in MAR 149, and by coincidence had already suggested to the Editor that it would be an idea for Corgi to produce a Premium Vanguards range based on larger vehicles like Daimlers and Rolls-Royces. I wonder if we will see this in the new for 2002 columns? The gap between their prices and Vitesse-Minichamps should give them the room to do it profitably. Hachette seem to be following Del Prado into the UK with English publications. I notice that they have launched a series based on 1:18 motorcycles and an accompanying part-work for £4.99 per part. Quite a high standard of detail and tampo printing in evidence. (See separate news item in this issue, Ed). I have now seen part one of the Hachette part work Un Siecle D'Automobiles and associated publicity. This is likely to give those who must have all variations more to hunt down. The partwork is of a higher quality than Del Prado, and looks like it has been specially put together, rather than an episodic re-print of existing books. My French is not good enough to check accuracy of articles but they look good. A certificate states that models are all 're-editions' of Solidos and a numbered flat-packed cardboard box is included. Part 1 was issued with a grey Renault 4CV. This is to much the same the same standard as the Del Prado model. Indeed, they look as if they share common castings and many of the detail parts. There are differences too, however. The Solido has a metal base marked Made in France which is held by a screw and pressed-in rear number plate, whilst the Del Prado has a plastic base held in by spun-over rivets and marked made in China. The Solido lacks the Del Prado's painted door handles but it gains white side-walls. One of the key differences is the wheels. The Del Prado has rubber tyres on chromed plastic hubs. The Solido has curious hard plastic wheels, more like a kit than a current diecast. The hub cap presses into a single tyre-wheel component capturing the end of the axle. The publicity material shows that part 2 comes with a mid-blue Peugeot 203 and part 3 with the familiar Renault 8 Gordini. Both appear to be made in France. The 203 looks like it may have 'hard wheels', but the Gordini looks exactly like the standard model. Other models shown in the publicity appear to be:
Peugeot or Citroen mpv Peugeot 205
Mercedes Benz 300SL Gullwing Porsche 911
Ford Mustang Convertible Lancia Stratos
Citroen 15CV traction avant Facel Facellia
Peugeot 403 Convertible Alpine 110
Late 1930s Packard Citroen Mehari
Renault Dauphine AC Cobra
Later Renault Alpine Tucker
Late 1930s Ford V8 Citroen 2CV
Ford Thunderbird Sportster (c. 63) Renault 4
Renault R5 Turbo Jaguar SS100
Chevrolet Corvette (1968-ish) Delahaye
Early 1950s Buick VW Microbus
Duesenberg Model J Bugatti Royale
Bugatti Atlantic? Range Rover
Jaguar XJ Saloon Mini Cooper
Studebaker Hawk Ferrari 250 GTO
Rolls Royce Phantom (1930s) Renault 40cv
Lamborghini Countach Triumph SpitfireSome models appear to be similar to Del Prado, such as the Duesenberg and Alpine A110. But others differ, notably the Mercedes-Benz Gullwing and the Bugatti Royale. Subscribers may also get a 'free' Citroen C4F 1930 truck in Hachette livery if they fulfil certain conditions. Hachette, like Del Prado, reserves the right to change the models shown, so the models shipped may differ. (All the models are easily identifiable from Solido catalogues, and will be of interest to Solido collectors if they are in different colours from the standard releases, especially if they are cheaper than normal retail price. Solido seem to have had difficulty delivering new releases in the last few months. Was this because they concentrated their efforts on deliveries to Hachette? If so, that is no way to encourage future support from many already disenchanted Solido retail stockists. Ed.)
MATCHBOX FOR 2001
Here are just some of the extensive plans which Mattel have for Matchbox for 2001:
BASIC CAR COLLECTION: ('75 series' diecast vehicles). 35 first time models with 'more muscular, contemporary styling', including all-new police cars trucks, tow trucks, ambulances and other rescue vehicles. The 2001 line also includes 15 'exciting segment like Pull Over! (Police) Flame Eaters (Fire) and Sun Chasers (Boats and off road trucks), .
MATCHBOX 5-Pack and 10-Pack Gift sets: New look for 2001 with 15 different themes.
RESCUE LAUNCHERS: The Launcher packs include five 'hero' vehicles and a rescue launcher to send vehicles to save the day.
TEXACO VEHICLES Recording the develop-ment of Texaco vehicles with realistic detail and special rubber tyres, Texaco vehicles in the 2001 line (March release) include: Ford Model A Van Peterbilt Tanker GMC Wrecker 1939 Chevy Panel Van 1956 Ford Pickup 1997 Ford F 50 Pickup
VINTAGE FIRE ENGINES in the 2001 line, for February release, include: 1932 Mercedes-Benz Ladder Truck 1932 Ford AA Truck Open-Cab Fire Engine 1932 Ford AA Fire Engine 1930 Ford A Battalion Chief's Pickup 1937 GMC Rescue Squad Van 1920Mack Fire Engine
LARGE SCALE VEHICLES: For January-February release, some large scale model vehicles in the 2001 line include: Ford F-130 Wrecker Texaco Jeepster Concept Vehicle Motor Trend 1940 Ford Sedan Delivery Police Ford F-350 1999 Campbell's Suburban McDonald's Dodge Power Wagon 1946 Coca-Cola
RESCUE & ADVENTURE VEHICLES: A series of rescue-themed toy vehicles with powered features for spring release, including SUVs, ATVs, emergency vehicles, and a helicopter.
PLAYSETS: Including Sky High rescue, Police station, Fire station, car wash and 'Build n Bash' construction playsets.
SWISSMINI DIPLOMAT
Swissmini of Switzerland plan to release a 1:43 handbuilt Opel Diplomat A Karmann cabriolet in April, reference 17.
ROCO CEASE CIVILIANS
By Hans-Georg SchmittAt the end of January Roco of Austria ceased production of civilian vehicles in their 1:87 plastic range. In future they will concentrate on their long-established model railway models and Minitanks military subjects.
JOAL FOR 2001
So far we only know of one planned release from Joal of Spain for the first quarter of 2001: 276 Komatsu PC1100 LC-6 Excavator.
1:72 ARTILLERY TRACTOR
Alexander Popa of AER Colectie Ltd in Russia informs us of his latest release, a new 1:72 scale resin kit in what he describes as 'higher quality', of a Voroshilovets heavy artillery tractor. He quotes its price as $6.00. You can email AER in Russia at aer@mdl.net
MA COLLECTION
Michel Sordet has updated us on the current status of his Ma Collection range of 1:43 handbuilt models from Switzerland:
LES BELLES FRANCAISES 1930-1950
Currently available from stock:
65 Rosengart Supertrahuit coupe (Lincoln engine) 48
80B Bugatti 101 coupe Antem Paris Show 1953 green
81A Talbot T150 SS Figoni open 1938 two tone blue
81B Talbot T150 SS Figoni closed 1938 rose-orange
82A Delahaye 135 Guilloré cabrio open four seat 49
82B Delahaye 135 Guilloré cabriolet 4 seater 1950
83A Delahaye 135 open cabriolet Narval Figoni 1948 Rita Hayworth sea-blue
83B Delahaye 135 open cabriolet Narval Figoni 1948 white, red interior
84 Bugatti 101C roadster Exner-Ghia 65 blue-white
85 Voisin C27 open roadster Figoni 35 two tone blue.
86 Bugatti 44 gas-powered van Boulangerie 1940 grey
88 Hispano Suiza 68 J12 cabriolet Fernandez & Darrin 1934 red-black
89A Delage D8 120 coupe Aérosport Letourneur-Marchand 1937 chrome black
89B Delage D8 120 coupe Aérosport Letourneur-M. Brussels Show 1937 black-yellow
89C Delage D8 120 coupe Aérosport Letourneur-M. Paris Show 1937 black-orange
90 Peugeot NP9r 601 DL aerodynamic saloon long chassis 1935 dark green
Available to order:
75B Hispano Suiza K6 shooting brake 46 wood frame
77 Talbot T26 Grand Sport coupe Saoutchik 1950 no 110. 156 red-black
78 Bugatti T57 Stelvio cabrio works 39 black-yellow
79A Peugeot 601 Eclipse open 1935 two tone green
79B Peugeot 601 Eclipse coupe 1935 beige-brown
80A Bugatti 101 coupe Antem coupe 1953 black-red
87A Renault Primaquatre ACL1 cabrio open 36 green
87B Renault Primaquatre ACL2 cabrio open 37 black
87C Renault Primaquatre BDF1 cabriolet closed 1938
87D Renault Primaquatre BDS2 cabriolet open 1939 beige-brown
NEW RELEASES
91 Peugeot A9L 601D 4 door 6 light swb saloon 1935
92 Renault Primaquatre AGS ambulance 1939
93A Delahaye 135 roadster swb Figoni Paris Show 1936 cream-orange
93B Delahaye 135 roadster swb Figoni Aga Khan 1936 black
93C Delahaye 135 roadster swb Figoni 1936, Pebble Beach 2000
94 Bugatti T50 coupe Millon-Guié 1932 red-blackEBBRO FIRST QUARTER
Here are some of the planned releases from Ebbro of Japan for the first quarter of 2001:
43125 Nissan Skyline GTR R34 Nismo JGTC Castrol
43126 Nissan Skyline GTR R34 Nismo 2000 Xanavi
43110 Toyota Supra Turbo JGTC 2000 Castrol
43111 Toyota Supra Turbo JGTC 2000 Kiyoshi
43112 Toyota Supra Turbo JGTC2000 Esso tiger
43113 Toyota Supra Turbo JGTC2000 Massimo
43118 Honda Integra type R 1998 white
43119 Honda Integra type R 1998 yellow
43120 Honda Integra type R 1998 silver
43121 Honda Civic 1200HL deluxe 3dr 69 white
43122 Honda Civic 1200HL deluxe 3dr 69 red
43123 Honda Civic 1200HL deluxe 3dr 69 green
43140 Nissan Skyline GTR Nismo 2000 Calsonic
43142 Toyota MR-S JGTC 2000 Autobacs red
43143 Toyota MR-S JGTC 2000 Spirits white
43157 Nissan Skyline GTR Purple
43158 Toyota Supra Turbo JGTC 2000 CDMA
43072 Nissan Skyline GTR PGC-10 1969 silver
43139 Fromule Nippon Team 5 Zigen
43141 Nissan Skyline GTR R34 Nismo 1000km
43145 Honda Civic CX 5 door white 2001
43146 Honda Civic CX 5 door red 2001
43147 Honda Civic CX 5 door met blue 2001
43130 Honda Step van white (March)
43131 Honda Step van blue (March)
43133 Honda Insight red (March)
43134 Honda Insight yellow (March)
43135 Honda Insight met blue (March)
2001 Honda RA300 F1 Surtees 67 1:20 scaleTHE BMW 3-SERIES
By Hans-Georg SchmittIn March 1998 the new BMW 3 series saloon was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. At the same place a year later the coupe appeared, and in Autumn at Frankfurt, the Touring (estate) was shown for the first time. Then the range was completed at Detroit in January 2000, with the 3 Series cabriolet. In April last year, the first cars were delivered. The cabriolet, BMW project number E46, is like the coupe from the front to the A-pillars, with a more emphasised belt line and a sharper edge to the boot lid. The rear screen of the soft top is made now glass, not plastic, and an optional hardtop is available. Also new are the seat-integrated seat belts, like on the 8 series, easier entry and automatically erecting roll-over bars. Two new straight six petrol engines are available, a 2.5 litre 170 hp, or a 3.0 litre of 231 hp. A four wheel drive 'X' version is also available. The model cars in 1:43 and 1:87 scales have been shown before, so now the 1:18 version can be reviewed. lt is made by Kyosho of Japan, using CAD data provided by BMW. The body sape is accurate, bonnet, doors and boot lid can be opened, and the steering works realistically. The lights, grille and BMW emblems are fitted with unequalled precision. Under the bonnet a top-notch engine model is fitted, even the dipstick is there, painted red like the original. Under the bonnet can be seen the insulating board and labels. The boot interior is flock coated. The interior is first rate. Seats and linings are soft-finished, looking like real leather and the wood finishes are also well executed. The dashboard has all switches, instrument dials, the screen of the navigation system, and all air registers. The gearshift pattern is printed on top of the gear lever knob. The textile-look movable seat-belts look fantastically realistic, with chrome buckles and red locks. It is hard to imagine more authenticity in a mass-produced model. Even accurate size sunvisors are there. The fine aluminium wheel rims are excellently executed, and through the spokes the brake discs and cylinders are clearly visible. Finally the baseplate; it is a pity that it is not visible, as it is done so well. The exhaust system with all its heat shielding looks like the original, even the insides of the tail pipes are black. This superb model car is available from all BMW dealers, in the authentic colour of sahara beige metallic with black interior, under ref 80 43 0 009 756. At the 2000 Geneva Motor Show the entirely new M3 coupe was launched by BMW, a thoroughbred sportscar, a wolf in sheep's clothing. Its 3.2 litre straight-six-petrol engine develops 343 hp at 7900 rpm, capable of achieving 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds. Visual upgrades include flared wings, an agressive looking front end with a bulging aluminium bonnet and four exhaust tail pipes. Chrome plated gills in the sides of the front wings move the M3 coupe closer to the Z8 super sports car. Now the new M3 is available as model car in two scales. The 1:43 version is made very accurately by Minichamps. In 1:87 scale, the M3 is made by Herpa, also to a high standard of accuracy. Both models come in the typical hinged black boxes, which convert into a presentation-platform when opened. The models are available from all BMW dealers: The 1:43 model is in topaz blue with black interior, ref 80 42 0 009 763 The 1:87 model is phoenix yellow with black interior, ref 80 41 0 009 761
Copyright 2001 Modelauto Ltd and Solnet Systems Ltd
e-mail mar@zeteo.com
